John and Sandy Crawford
In town: John and Sandy Crawford, high school sweethearts, call Buffalo, Mo., home.
John works for Empire Electric and has offices in both Bolivar and Ozark, Mo. “I’ve been with Empire for 33 years next month,” said John.
Sandy began her first term as the 119th District State Representative in January 2011. “Currently, I represent Dallas, Hickory and St. Clair Counties but with the redistricting starting next year I will be representing the 129th district which will include all of Dallas and part of Laclede Counties,” said Sandy. When the House is not in session she works for O’Bannon Bank in Buffalo as a credit analyst.
In the country: John and Sandy run their Angus operation on 80 acres just outside of Buffalo across from the Buffalo Livestock Market. They raise their own beef and sell private treaty or take them across the road to the auction. “My dad built the sale barn in the mid 70’s. I’ve always been involved in agriculture,” explained Sandy.
Blending town and country: John and Sandy feel it is very important to stay connected to agriculture and get youth involved. They are supporters of the Dallas County Fair, Missouri Farmers Care and Protect the Harvest.
“If I could make enough farming I would – my job supports our farm,” stated John.
Staying involved in agriculture is a high priority for Sandy. She said, “Agriculture is the number one industry in the state. It is good for me to have the connection and background in agriculture so I can understand the issues facing our state.” Sandy is on the Missouri House of Representatives Agri-Business Committee.
Story and Photo by Lynzee Glass
